The Lakes State HIV/AIDS Commission in Rumbek observed World AIDS Day under the theme “Let Community Live.” The event, attended by senior government officials, youth representatives, local citizens, UN agencies, and health partners, aimed to raise awareness.

During the commemoration on Tuesday, the HIV/AIDS Commission in Lakes State revealed a significant increase in HIV cases, with 4,262 confirmed cases at Rumbek State Hospital alone, spanning seven other counties in Lakes State.

Madam Arop Malieny, Chairperson of the HIV/AIDS Commission, emphasized the importance of adhering to prevention guidelines. She urged the public on Tuesday to follow the ABC guidelines: Abstinence, use of condoms, or faithfulness to one another.

Malieny stated, “Public health is crucial to all of us, and we recognize that HIV/AIDS is a major challenge in Lakes State and South Sudan. The infection rate is alarming, with more people receiving treatment, while others succumb to AIDS.”

“Last month, the infection count was 440 in CCM Hospital alone, and a majority of these individuals are unaware of their HIV status, making the challenge of dealing with HIV/AIDS difficult,” she explained. “I want to express gratitude to our partners, both in the public and private sectors, for supporting us with the financial resources needed in our fight against HIV/AIDS.”

“I urge the people of Lakes State and South Sudan in general to collaborate with us in the battle against HIV/AIDS,” she continued. “My message to everyone is to be aware of your HIV/AIDS status, and for those with the virus, understand that it’s not the end of the world.”

Madam Arop emphasized the importance of staying safe, adhering to consistent treatment with ARVs, and encouraging those under treatment to continue.

The UNMISS representative and coordinator of the Rumbek Field Office noted that World AIDS Day 2023 marks a defining moment. He highlighted a nearly 70% reduction in AIDS-related deaths since 2004 and a significant decrease in new HIV infections since the 1980s. However, he emphasized that AIDS still claims lives each year.

“To win the battle against AIDS, we must support those on the frontline. This involves placing community leadership at the center of HIV plans, programs, budgets, and monitoring reports. We need to eliminate barriers to community leadership, ensure space for local civil society groups to carry out their vital work, and, above all, secure funding,” he added.

He highlighted that the HIV/AIDS response in low and middle-income countries requires over 8 billion US dollars annually for full funding. This includes scaling up funding for programs led by people living with HIV and prevention initiatives led by communities. “To finish the job, let’s support communities in ending this not only in their neighbourhoods but also in their countries and around the world,” he urged.

Chol Kuotwel Manhom, the Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agencies in Lakes State, emphasized the significance of International World AIDS Day as a forum for reflection and idea-sharing about the dangers posed by the disease. He mentioned that despite the attendance at the event, there is room for improvement in raising awareness among the people of Lakes State.

“The important message is getting across, and this attendance tells us that people are generally unaware of this disease. We need to create awareness, especially in the community, to address the stigma associated with the disease,” he explained.

He added, “If everyone becomes aware, it becomes easier to convey our messages and provide the necessary treatment for those already affected. We need to reach out to villages, cattle camps, military barracks, churches, and schools. If we don’t do this, the goals set for 2030 will not be achieved in South Sudan because achieving them requires general awareness of the dangers of this disease and what should be done.”

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